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Summary Table
| Category | Summary |
|---|---|
| Annual salary | Average pay can reach upwards of $57,000 |
| Hourly pay | Average pay ~$30–35/hr |
| Settings | Schools (most common), early intervention, private practice, some clinics |
| Benefits | Health/dental/vision, 401(k), PTO, CEUs, license reimbursement; these items may be available depending on employer |
| Job growth | National growth: 15–21%; high demand in IL |
| Licensing | Approved Associate degree; IDFPR-issued licensure |
| Career pros | Flexible schedules, impactful work, career growth path |
Salary & Compensation
- Statewide range: According to Illinois data, SLPAs earn an estimated $37,500- $57,100 (This data reflect salaries across the state including the chicagoland area) (speechpathologistprograms.com).
- In Chicago, PayScale reports about $33.67/hour (payscale.com).
- Hourly pay typically falls between $30–$35, depending on role and setting .
Note: Variation depends on setting (school, private practice, healthcare), experience, and location within the state.
Work Setting & Conditions
SLPAs typically work under the oversight of licensed speech-language pathologists and are found in:
- Schools (pre‑K to 12): Most common setting—caseloads include both individual and group therapy (speechpathologistprograms.com).
- Early-intervention programs: For children 0–3 years.
- Private practices and clinical settings (Primarily pediatric centered)
Typical conditions include:
- Full‑time or part‑time roles; school-year schedules often include summers off.
- Structured supervision by an SLP.
Standard benefits such as health insurance, 401(k), vision, dental, paid time off, continuing ed/licensure support (speechpathologistprograms.com, indeed.com).
Career Outlook & Advantages
- National job growth outlook: 15–21% between 2018–2028—much faster than average (zippia.com).
- Illinois-specific opportunities: 500+ Speech-Language Pathology job postings statewide, including 80+ in early June via Indeed.
- On-the-ground trends: Interviews and expert commentary encourage SLPAs to be flexible in setting choice to maximize pay.
- Job benefits: Beyond compensation, many roles include paid licensure, professional development, CEUs, and flexible hours.
- Foundational career path: Excellent launchpad for those aiming to become fully licensed SLPs, offering valuable hands-on experience.
Licensing & Education
- Illinois licensure issued by the Department of Financial & Professional Regulation.
- Requires completion of an approved associate program (or bachelor’s with specific coursework): at least 60 semester hours, including 36 technical hours (speechpathologistprograms.com) AND completion of 100 direct clinical experience hours.
- License renewal occurs biennially; applicants must have good moral character.
- Program content covers speech processes/disorders, observation, intervention, and professional standards (speechpathologistprograms.com).
Key Advantages of the SLPA Role
- Growing profession: 15–21% projected job growth; increasing demand in schools and clinics.
- Competitive pay: Solid salary range and benefits packages, especially in public school position
- Benefits: Many positions include robust benefits—healthcare, PTO, continuing education, licensure support.
- Flexible schedules: School-year roles with holidays and summers off; part-time and flex options available.
- Career stepping stone: Valuable experience if pursuing full SLP credentials; roles offer hands-on learning and mentorship.
- High job satisfaction: Rewarding work helping clients improve communication—contributing to clients’ confidence and daily functioning .
Next Steps
- Explore local educational programs (community colleges or 4-year institutions) offering SLPA degree.
- Apply to active job postings on Indeed, ZipRecruiter, Glassdoor, ASHA portals, school districts
- Network with supervising SLPs and join professional groups (e.g., ISHA or ASHA).
- Consider long-term goals—working as an SLPA can lead to SLP licensure if desired.